CENTERVILLE -- "Not guilty" said fifth-grade jurors in the case of BB Wolf v. Curly Pig. To learn more about the judicial branch of government, students at Tolman Elementary recently participated in a mock trial held at the Centerville Courthouse. "In fifth-grade, students are taught about the separation of the three branches of government," said Debbie Ferguson, the students' teacher and organizer of the event. "I heard about holding a mock trial with students from a friend of mine and thought it would be a great way for students to learn about the judicial branch."

So Ferguson contacted Centerville City, which offered its courthouse for use, found a judge to participate and began preparing the script, which included two cases: BB Wolf v. Curly Pig and Rumpelstiltskin v. The Queen.

When the trial date came, each student had a role and was ready to present it at the trial.

"Every student was involved in one way or another," said Ferguson. "Of course there were students who played the defendant's attorney, plaintiff's attorney and the judge, but we also had students play roles, such as the court bailiff and court reporter."

While the students were given a script to follow, many moved beyond it.

"As the students became comfortable, they would cross examine and move past the script," said Ferguson. "This showed me that the kids understood what their role was--not just to read the script, but to defend their client."

During the proceedings, First District Court Judge Larry Jones watched over the event, helping to clarify questions or pointing out when a mistake took place.

"He was great," Ferguson said. "He oversaw the entire trial and helped out whenever something was in question."

Beyond helping the students during the trial, Jones spoke to the students about the judicial branch.

"He told the kids about what it means to be an attorney and a judge," said Ferguson. "They were able to ask him questions about what he likes and dislikes about his job. I think that he made a great impression on them."

"He also told them that it's important to succeed and do your best everyday," Ferguson continued. "He told them that they can't let problems stand in their way of reaching their potential."

Overall, the trial was a truly educational experience as the students learned of the many parts that make the judicial branch a success.

"Our objective was to help the students understand the judicial system and to expose them to the variety of careers within the judicial system," said Ferguson. "The event really made an impression on the students. We definitely reached our goal."

sryther@davisclipper.com